Great Smoky Mountains
Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove
Featured Experiences
Exploring with a guide helps relax so you see more and worry less — from iconic hikes to wildlife tours.
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Alum Bluffs + Lower Mt LeConte
Guided full-day hike to Alum Bluffs and Lower Mt LeConte.... More
- Full Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Awe-Inspiring Alum Bluffs Adventure
- Conquer Lower Mt LeConte
- Intimate Small Group Experiences
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GSMNP Kayak Tour (Half Day)
Guided half-day kayak adventure in the Smoky Mountains.... More
- Half Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Glide Through Nature’s Wonders
- Adventure for Every Explorer
- Safety First, Adventure Always
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Remote Waterfalls and Shuttle Hike
Guided hiking adventure to remote Smoky Mountain waterfalls.... More
- Full Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Unleash Your Inner Explorer
- Discover Untamed Destinations
- Embrace Thrilling Journeys
Suggested Itineraries
Gateway towns like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Cherokee make the perfect bases for exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Most visitors spend 3–5 days, but whether you have just one day or a full week, here’s how to make the most of it.
1 Day Itinerary
Morning: Drive to Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) for sweeping views, then head into Cades Cove to spot deer, black bears, and historic cabins.
Afternoon: Join a guided hike to a waterfall or a sightseeing tour for stress-free exploration.
Evening: End with a wildlife drive or a short horseback ride before catching sunset colors over the ridgelines.
👉 Best for first-time visitors or quick getaways.
3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Start at Sugarlands Visitor Center to get oriented. Families can take part in Junior Ranger programs, while others enjoy short, scenic hikes.
Day 2: Spend the day on the water with a kayak trip or guided fishing float. For something different, ride horseback through shaded trails.
Day 3: Drive Newfound Gap Road, stopping at overlooks, and take a heritage tour of Cades Cove to connect with Appalachian and Cherokee history.
👉 Balanced mix of nature, adventure, and culture.
Weeklong Adventure
Day 1–2: Explore Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge while easing into the park with short hikes and a scenic sightseeing tour.
Day 3–4: Go deeper with a guided backcountry hike to waterfalls and a private fishing trip on East Tennessee rivers.
Day 5: Take a break in Cherokee, visiting the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and enjoying cultural experiences.
Day 6: Elevate your adventure with a helicopter tour over Kuwohi and Cades Cove.
Day 7: Slow down with a wildlife drive, a picnic in Townsend, or a relaxed horseback ride before heading home.
👉 Perfect for families or couples who want to see it all at a comfortable pace.
No two trips to the Smokies are the same — and that’s what makes them unforgettable. If you’d like a hand creating your perfect itinerary, our team can help. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a week packed with hiking, fishing, and scenic tours, we’ll design a plan that fits your schedule, interests, and budget.
👉 Tell us your travel dates and favorite activities, and we’ll build a personalized Smoky Mountains experience just for you.
What to Expect Each Season
Spring (March–May)
- Wildflowers & Blooms – The Smokies are called the “Wildflower National Park,” with over 1,500 flowering species. Mid-April is peak bloom.
- Waterfalls – Snowmelt and spring rains make waterfalls most powerful.
- Wildlife Spotting – Black bears emerge from hibernation; deer and elk are active.
- Popular Activities: Wildflower hikes, photography tours, and waterfall sightseeing.
Discover Wildflower Tours
Summer (June–August)
- Fireflies – The famous synchronous fireflies light up Elkmont in early June (lottery-entry event).
- Streams & Rivers – Perfect for tubing, kayaking, and fishing trips.
- Lush Greenery – Dense forest canopy and high mountain meadows in full growth.
- Popular Activities: Kayak tours, fishing floats, horseback rides, and family-friendly activities like sightseeing tours.
Fall (September–November)
- Foliage Season – One of the best in the U.S., with vibrant reds, golds, and oranges. Peaks vary by elevation, from late September to early November.
- Cooler Weather – Great for long hikes without the summer humidity.
- Elk Rut – Elk bugling can be heard in Cataloochee Valley in September.
- Popular Activities: Scenic drives (Cades Cove, Newfound Gap), hiking tours, and helicopter flights for bird’s-eye foliage views.
Winter (December–February)
- Snow-Capped Peaks – Clingmans Dome and high ridges often dusted in snow.
- Quiet Trails – Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere.
- Holiday Charm – Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are lit with winter lights.
- Popular Activities: Winter hikes, photography tours, cozy sightseeing drives, stargazing on clear nights.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tours
Tours In And Around The Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains are full of hidden corners, winding trails, and breathtaking views — but seeing them with a guide means you don’t have to worry about logistics, safety, or missing out on the best spots. Our tours are led by local experts who are certified, professional, and passionate about sharing the Smokies.
Whether you want to cast a line in a mountain river, ride horseback through shaded trails, paddle across peaceful lakes, or soar above Kuwohi on a helicopter flight, you’ll find an adventure that matches your style and schedule. Every tour includes the gear you need, from kayaks and fishing tackle to safe, well-trained horses and modern sightseeing vans.
Guided experiences also unlock stories you’d miss on your own — Cherokee heritage, pioneer homesteads, and the delicate ecosystems that make the Smokies the most biodiverse national park in the U.S. From family-friendly outings to private adventures, there’s a tour for every traveler.
Fishing Tours
Cast your line with local certified fishing guides who know every bend of the rivers and lakes. All gear, snacks, and safety equipment are provided, so you can focus on catching trout, bass, or stripers in the Smokies’ pristine waters.
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Trout Float Trip
Private trout fishing float trip with expert guides on East... More
- Half or full day • East TN
- Great for beginners & pros
- Catch trophy trout & stripers
- All gear & snacks provided
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Smallmouth Float Trip
Private smallmouth float trip with expert guides, all gear... More
- 4–9 Hours • East TN rivers
- Perfect for families & friends
- Catch hard-fighting bass
- Gear & refreshments provided
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Striper Fishing Trips
Private 4-hour Striper Fishing Trip on Cherokee Lake with all... More
- 4 Hours • Cherokee Lake
- Max 4 private anglers
- Target trophy stripers
- Fish cleaning included
Sightseeing Tours
Relax on guided sightseeing trips led by professional naturalist guides and certified drivers. These small-group tours are designed to maximize views, comfort, and safety while you explore waterfalls, overlooks, and historic landmarks.
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Appalachian Waterfalls Short Stroll
Discover breathtaking Appalachian waterfalls in just 3 hours.... More
- 3 Hours • Gatlinburg, TN
- Ideal for all skill levels
- Explore the most popular waterfalls
- Guided by expert naturalists
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The Classic National Park Tour
Full-day guided scenic and cultural tour of the Smoky Mountains.... More
- Full Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Perfect for first-timers & families
- See iconic overlooks & waterfalls
- Includes guide, transport & lunch
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Smoky Mountain Discovery Tour
Family-friendly 3-hour sightseeing adventure in the Smokies.... More
- 3 Hours • Pigeon Forge, TN
- Ideal for families of all ages
- See wildlife, vistas & heritage sites
- Includes shuttle & light snacks
Helicopter Tours
Soar above the mountains with FAA-licensed pilots who bring unmatched experience and narration. These flights follow the highest safety standards and showcase Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and sweeping ridgelines from the sky.
Please contact us so we can help you find what you are looking for.
Horseback Rides
Ride with trained equestrian staff who put guest safety first. Horses are well cared for, trails are scenic yet beginner-friendly, and guides are skilled in matching riders with the perfect horse for the journey.
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One Hour Guided Horseback Trail Ride
Relaxing one-hour horseback ride through Smoky Mountain... More
- 1 Hour • Marshall, NC
- Shaded Trails, Scenic Vistas
- Wildlife Encounters Await You
- Perfect Horses for Every Rider
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Three Hour Guided Horseback Trail Ride
Three-hour guided horseback ride through the Smoky Mountains.... More
- 3 Hours • Marshall, NC
- Shaded Trails of Adventure
- Dynamic Mountain Riding Experience
- Wildlife and Bison Encounters
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Two Hour Guided Horseback Trail Ride
Guided horseback trail ride through Smoky Mountain countryside.... More
- 2 Hours • Marshall, NC
- Scenic Trails That Tell a Story
- Wildlife Encounters Await
- Extend Your Adventure Under the Stars
Hiking & Kayaking Tours
Join certified local hiking guides who know the park’s trails, history, and hidden gems. With proper training in wilderness safety and wildlife awareness, they ensure a safe and rewarding hike for every skill level.
Paddle with experienced water guides who are certified in safety and wilderness first aid. All kayaks and gear are provided, giving you peace of mind as you explore calm lakes and mountain waterways.
-
Alum Bluffs + Lower Mt LeConte
Guided full-day hike to Alum Bluffs and Lower Mt LeConte.... More
- Full Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Awe-Inspiring Alum Bluffs Adventure
- Conquer Lower Mt LeConte
- Intimate Small Group Experiences
-
GSMNP Kayak Tour (Half Day)
Guided half-day kayak adventure in the Smoky Mountains.... More
- Half Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Glide Through Nature’s Wonders
- Adventure for Every Explorer
- Safety First, Adventure Always
-
Remote Waterfalls and Shuttle Hike
Guided hiking adventure to remote Smoky Mountain waterfalls.... More
- Full Day • Gatlinburg, TN
- Unleash Your Inner Explorer
- Discover Untamed Destinations
- Embrace Thrilling Journeys
Visitor Centers At The Park
Sugarlands Visitor Center
The main gateway to the park on the Tennessee side, Sugarlands offers natural history exhibits, a short park film, ranger-led programs, and a well-stocked bookstore. It’s also the trailhead for several short, family-friendly hikes.
Amenities:
- Ranger/staff on site
- Accessible restrooms
- Drinking water
- WiFi & cell service available
- ATM & vending machines
- Bus/RV parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Address: 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (winter hours Dec–Feb: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM; hours vary seasonally)
Cades Cove Visitor Center
A highlight of the park’s most popular scenic drive, this visitor center offers cultural demonstrations, a working grist mill, historic cabins and barns, plus a bookstore. It’s the best place to combine wildlife viewing with Appalachian history.
Amenities:
- Ranger/staff on site
- Accessible restrooms
- Drinking water
- Bookstore and exhibits
- Nearby historic buildings and trails
- Wheelchair accessible facilities
Address: Located halfway along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, Townsend, TN 37882
Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Christmas Day)
Oconaluftee Visitor Center
Located at the park’s eastern gateway near Cherokee, Oconaluftee highlights the cultural heritage of the Smokies with a museum on Appalachian life and the adjacent Mountain Farm Museum of historic log buildings. Elk are frequently seen grazing in nearby fields.
Amenities:
- Ranger/staff on site
- Accessible restrooms
- Drinking water
- Bookstore and exhibits
- Adjacent outdoor farmstead with level paths
- Wheelchair accessible
Address: 1194 Newfound Gap Road, Cherokee, NC 28719
Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (hours vary seasonally)
Kuwohi Visitor Center
Perched at the highest point in the park, Kuwohi Visitor Center offers an information desk, small bookstore, and restrooms. From the parking area, a steep but paved half-mile trail leads to the Kuwohi Observation Tower, with sweeping views of the Smokies.
Amenities:
- Ranger/staff on site (seasonal)
- Restrooms (accessible)
- Bookstore and info desk
- Scenic overlooks
- Wheelchair access limited (parking area accessible; trail is paved but steep)
Address: At the end of Clingmans Dome Road, near the summit of Kuwohi (6,643 ft)
Seasonal Hours: April–November, open daily 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (weather permitting; closed in winter)
Getting A Parking Tag & How To Use It
Entrance Fees / Parking Passes
There is no entrance fee, making GSMNP one of the most accessible national parks in the country. However, a parking tag is required if you stop for more than 15 minutes. Tags can be purchased at visitor centers, kiosks throughout the park, or online at recreation.gov.
Park Information & Details
Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomes visitors in every season. Spring wildflowers, summer rivers, fall foliage, and winter snows make each visit unique. Some areas close in winter due to weather, so check ahead before you go.
Best Time To Visit
Fall is the most popular season, thanks to vibrant foliage that sweeps across the ridgelines from late September through early November. Summer brings lush forests and long days — but also the most crowds. Spring is perfect for wildflowers and waterfalls, while winter rewards the hardy with peaceful trails and snowy vistas.
Food & Drink
Dining and lodging in-park: Campgrounds within park boundaries.
Nearby: Hotels, cabins and restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Shuttle / Transport Info
Public transportation in and around the park is limited. Shuttles operate from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, but most visitors find a personal vehicle the easiest way to explore. Parking can be tight at popular trailheads — booking a guided tour often means transportation is included, so no parking stress.
Nearest airports: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Take US-129 S and then US-441 N to Gatlinburg.
What to Bring
Prepare for temperatures to vary. Summers are warm and humid.
We recommend hiking shoes, season appropriate clothing layers, a rain jacket, bug spray, and a refillable water bottle. For those fishing, please bring water shoes. Those planning to go horseback riding are required to wear closed-toed shoes and pants.
Safety Tips
Wildlife is abundant — black bears, elk, and deer are common sightings. Keep a safe distance (at least 50 yards – or 150 ft. from bears, 150 yards – or 450 ft. from elk). Never feed wildlife. Weather changes quickly at higher elevations, so bring layers, even in summer. Guided tours add peace of mind with local experts trained in safety and wilderness first aid.
Accessibility For All
This park has many trails and areas open for all abilities. The visitor centers are fully accessible and some overlooks have paved paths.
Sugarlands Visitor Center (Gatlinburg, TN)
Fully accessible building with exhibits, information desk, film, restrooms, and paved paths to short nature trails.
Clingmans Dome Observation Tower
The half-mile paved path from the parking area is steep but paved. Many wheelchair users with assistance can access it. The parking lot also has accessible restrooms.
Cades Cove
- Visitor Center: accessible restrooms and exhibits.
- Driving loop: scenic wildlife viewing from car, plus accessible pull-offs.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center & Mountain Farm Museum (Cherokee, NC)
Visitor center is fully accessible, and there are level, hard-packed paths around the outdoor farmstead exhibits.
Newfound Gap Overlook
Parking area and main overlook are paved and wheelchair accessible, with stunning views.
Look Rock Observation Tower (Foothills Parkway, TN)
Paved path and accessible picnic areas nearby.
Picnic Areas
Chimneys, Cades Cove, Collins Creek, Deep Creek, Greenbrier, Metcalf Bottoms, and Twin Creeks picnic areas have accessible tables and restrooms.
Campgrounds
- Cades Cove, Cosby, Elkmont, Smokemont each have wheelchair-accessible campsites and restrooms.
- Designated sites are paved or level with nearby parking.
National Public Lands Day – Restore & Protect
What Does It Mean To Be A Smokies Volunteer?
Biking In The Park & Vehicle Free Days.
What You Need To Know About Backcountry Camping & Backpacking
Learn About Our Drive Up Campgrounds
Maps Of The Park & Region
When you are planning your trip to the park, itʻs best to be able to get a visual of the area you want to visit. These maps below provide detailed information about areas in and around Smoky Mountain National Park.
Travel To The Park
Park Gateway Towns
Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg is a bustling resort town in eastern Tennessee, nestled at the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its lively atmosphere, it offers a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions.
Pigeon Forge, TN
Pigeon Forge is a vibrant mountain resort city in Sevier County, Tennessee, just north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for families and country music fans.
Cherokee, NC
Cherokee is a vibrant community nestled in the Oconaluftee River Valley, rich in Cherokee culture and history. It serves as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Sevierville, NC
Sevierville, the county seat of Sevier County, is a vibrant city in East Tennessee. Known for its rich history and as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, it offers a blend of outdoor activities and local culture.
Townsend, TN
Townsend is a quaint city in Blount County, Tennessee, serving as a primary gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its serene landscapes and historical significance, it offers visitors a peaceful retreat with access to outdoor adventures.
Marshall, NC
Marshall is a quaint town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene. The town offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it a perfect gateway to the surrounding natural beauty.
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville, Tennessee, is a lively city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains. It offers a blend of outdoor activities and urban experiences.
What Visitors Say About The Park
Popular Videos, Podcasts & Travelogues
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CONTACT US
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National Park Tours
700 Rochelle Cir
Fort Collins, CO 80526 -
Meeting locations vary for each tour: You will be sent a meeting location after you book
